The Cocoa Coast is a region of extraordinary scenic beauty that still preserves unspoilt natural landscapes.
True ecological paradises make up this destination, always marked by the exuberant presence of the Atlantic Rainforest, considered by the world scientific community to be one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.
The Cocoa Coast covers the municipalities of Ilhéus, Itabuna , Uruçuca, Itacaré, Una, Canavieiras and Santa Luzia, forming a territory of great historical and cultural significance.
The region is directly linked to three of Brazil’s great economic cycles: Brazilwood, sugar cane and cocoa.
Its enchanting landscapes evoke memories of the primitive lands that the Tupiniquin Indians had to cede to the Portuguese colonisers in the 16th century.
This natural sanctuary is home to an impressive diversity of scenery: forests, rivers, waterfalls, rapids, trails, beaches, mangroves, mountains, caves, viewpoints, cocoa farms, ecological reserves, theme parks and environmental protection areas.
The abundance of sunshine makes the experience even more special.
In addition to this natural wealth, the Cocoa Coast has a valuable cultural legacy. Among the highlights are the historic sites, with their old mansions, chapels and churches, the old mills, popular festivals, religious traditions, local handicrafts and the customs of the region’s people.
The typical cuisine, based on fish and shellfish, is also a major attraction.
But there’s more: the stories and legends preserved in the collective memory of the people, passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition. After all, Bahians have the soul of historians.
Video about the Cocoa Coast in Bahia
COSTA DO CACAU E COSTA DO DENDÊ26:04
Ilhéus Vista de Cima14:14
Costa do Cacau na Bahia01:15
Itacaré - Drone
Praia de Taipu de Fora na Peninsula de Maraú03:16
Serra Grande na Bahia - Guia Turístico
Best destinations on the Cocoa Coast
1. Ilhéus
The best-known city on the Costa do Cacau is Ilhéus, a destination full of beautiful beaches, incredible festivals and impeccable cuisine. Considered the gateway to the region, it is a place that enchants and surprises visitors.
Immortalised by Jorge Amado, Ilhéus is attracting more and more travellers in search of breathtaking landscapes and the authentic beauty of Bahia.
Without a doubt, it is the perfect destination to start an unforgettable trip along the Cocoa Coast.
Start your journey by exploring the Historic Centre, where beautiful colonial mansions and centuries-old churches tell the rich history of the region. Two must-sees on this tour are the São Sebastião Cathedral, symbol of the city, and the Municipal Theatre, an architectural treasure that enchants with its cultural performances and art exhibitions.
Enjoy Ilhéus’ tropical climate and stunning beaches. Praia dos Milionários is a popular destination for those who want to relax in the sun, go for walks along the seafront and savour typical snacks in charming stalls. If you’re looking for a quieter beach with warm, calm waters, Praia do Norte is just as fascinating.
One of the most emblematic and unmissable tours in Ilhéus is the ‘Jorge Amado Circuit’, which takes visitors on a journey through the scenery that inspired the renowned writer. Among the highlights are the Casa de Cultura Jorge Amado, the author’s former residence, and the Vesúvio Bar, one of the oldest in the city, famous for being quoted in the classic ‘Gabriela, Cravo e Canela’.
Another unmissable stop is Fazenda Yrerê, where you can learn about the cocoa production process, taste delicious handmade chocolates and contemplate the beauty of the cocoa plantations.
For a final touch, visit Lagoa Encantada, a natural refuge with lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters. There you can take boat trips, swim and simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the place.
Ilhéus captivates with its fascinating history, exuberant nature and authentic Bahia flavours, making every moment of your trip truly unforgettable.
2. Itacaré
Itacaré is a haven of paradisiacal beaches, located on the coast of Bahia.
About 72 kilometres from Ilhéus, this former fishing village has become an unmissable tourist destination, offering an excellent infrastructure for accommodation, gastronomy and entertainment.
Be enchanted by the many ecotourism options, explore trails surrounded by rivers and exuberant waterfalls, enjoy the trendy historic centre with its busy kiosks at night and relax on the region’s beautiful beaches.
You’ll fall in love with Itacaré!
3. Maraú
The Maraú district, also known as the Maraú Peninsula, is one of the most spectacular routes for those seeking peace and quiet.
Less popular than other destinations in the region, Maraú preserves a calm atmosphere, ideal for those who want to relax in one of the most beautiful places in Bahia.
In the late afternoon, it’s common to find capoeira circles in the central square, providing a unique cultural spectacle. A must-see is a visit to the natural pools of Taipu de Fora, where, at low tide, colourful fish make the scenery even more dazzling for divers.
4. Serra Grande
Between the blue sea and the lush green of Bahia’s southern coastline lies Serra Grande.
This small village enchants with its immense coconut groves, refreshing waterfalls and long beaches with warm, practically deserted waters.
But Serra Grande offers much more than a stunning viewpoint – it’s a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and contact with nature in a region recognised as a World Natural Heritage Site
From Ilhéus to Itacaré, a stop at the Serra Grande viewpoint is a must to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the coastline with its calm blue waters, with the city of Ilhéus in the background (30 kilometres away).
The village of Serra Grande, situated 80 metres above sea level, is very close to the viewpoint andRio de Contas tourist attractions in Itacaré, Bahia is also worth a visit, offering a welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable views.
Other tourist attractions on the Cocoa Coast
- A Guide to Serra Grande: Paradise on the Cocoa Coast
- The beaches of Una are almost unexplored and bordered by large coconut groves
- Exploring the Wonders of Itacaré: A Tropical Paradise in Bahia
- Itacaré: Discover the History and Charms of this Destination
- Rio de Contas tourist attractions in Itacaré, Bahia
- Explore the Beauty of Comandatuba Island in Bahia
- Exploring the Enchanting Lagoa Encantada in Ilhéus
- Cocoa farms attract tourists to southern Bahia
- Ilhéus: Culture, History and Natural Beauty in the South of Bahia
- Experience the Magic of Canavieiras: Beaches, Culture, and History
- History of Cocoa: Origins, Expansion and Economic Impact
- Exploring the Different Sloth Species: From Common to Collared
- Chocolate Paths and Road on the Cocoa Coast
Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide to Bahia and Salvador
Publicações Relacionadas
Rio de Contas tourist attractions in Itacaré, Bahia
Exploring the Wonders of Itacaré: A Tropical Paradise in Bahia
Explore the Beauty of Comandatuba Island in Bahia
Exploring the Different Sloth Species: From Common to Collared
Chocolate Paths and Road on the Cocoa Coast
Experience the Magic of Canavieiras: Beaches, Culture, and History
Cocoa farms attract tourists to southern Bahia
The beaches of Una are almost unexplored and bordered by large coconut groves
Exploring the Enchanting Lagoa Encantada in Ilhéus
Itacaré: Discover the History and Charms of this Destination
History of Cocoa: Origins, Expansion and Economic Impact
Ilhéus: Culture, History and Natural Beauty in the South of Bahia
A Guide to Serra Grande: Paradise on the Cocoa Coast
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